February 9, 2026


Super Bowl Sparks Political Firestorm: MAGA Critics Slam Bad Bunny's Halftime Show

In an unprecedented clash of culture and politics, the Super Bowl LX halftime performance by Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny has ignited a storm of controversy. The artist's set, predominantly in Spanish and rich with Puerto Rican symbolism, was met with fierce criticism from supporters of the MAGA movement, including former President Donald Trump.



Trump had previously expressed disdain for Bad Bunny's selection as the headliner, lamenting the NFL's choice on social platforms. His grievances peaked post-performance when he criticized the artist's use of Spanish, saying on Truth Social, "Nobody understands a word this guy is saying."



The performance at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, was a vibrant homage to Bad Bunny’s homeland, featuring a sugarcane field, bodegas, and a traditional casita. While it garnered applause from fans celebrating Puerto Rican culture, MAGA followers were less enthusiastic.



Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, better known by his stage name Bad Bunny, has been a vocal critic of the Trump administration, particularly its immigration policies. This political backdrop set the stage for further scrutiny during his Super Bowl appearance.



Despite not directly addressing politics during his performance, Bad Bunny's brief English message, “God bless America,” accompanied by a procession of Latin and South American flags, led by the U.S. flag, was a unifying gesture. However, it did little to quell the criticism from some quarters, where figures like Nick Adams and Laura Loomer expressed their discontent loudly on social media.



MAGA-friendly influencer Jake Paul called for viewers to dismiss the halftime show, labeling Bad Bunny a "fake American citizen who publicly hates America." This comment drew ire, including from Paul's own brother, Logan, and others who pointed out that Puerto Ricans are indeed U.S. citizens.



Amid the backlash, alternative programming by Turning Point USA, featuring Kid Rock, was promoted by MAGA proponents as a more "American" option, drawing attention from notable Republican figures.



The uproar over the halftime show highlights a deeper cultural and political divide, emphasizing the ongoing debate over identity and representation in America. As the dust settles, the conversation is likely to continue, with implications for both the entertainment and political landscapes in the U.S.